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Is there a way to convert the TIFF image file to an ORF?

by Casey Schmidt  |  March 9, 2020

3 min. read
A reel on a camera.

Is it possible to convert the TIFF file to the ORF? Though a lot of image files convert into and save as each other, it’s not always possible (or ideal). This guide will break everything down for you and offer some alternative suggestions as well.

What is the TIFF image file?

The TIFF image file is a raster image that offers immense security features. TIFF stands for Tagged Image File Format. It is a format that stores metadata inside each file. Though it’s not the most accessible file format available, it does open without third-party software tools in both Windows and Mac operating systems.

What is an ORF image file?

The ORF image file is the standard format for which all photographs snapped using an Olympus camera are stored. ORF stands for Olympus Raw Image File. It is an extremely large file, due to the fact that it contains a high resolution, raw representation of each photograph. Essentially, the ORF replicates all photographs exactly without any quality loss. It’s easy to open an ORF file because of the Olympus Viewer, a flagship Olympus software program.

An Olympus camera closeup picture.
The ORF is essentially a direct copy of a photograph.

Is it possible to convert the TIFF to an ORF?

If you’ve decided to convert your TIFF files into the ORF, it’s likely because of the benefits the ORF offers – high quality images that best show photograph details. This is understandable, however, the TIFF unfortunately doesn’t convert into the ORF. The ORF exists solely as a way for Olympus camera users to get their pictures from their camera onto a computer. The ORF can then be converted into other image file types, but that’s the extent of its full functionality.

Usually, there’s a way to save images as a completely different format, essentially performing a manual conversion. However, that’s not the case with the ORF. It’s just too unique for certain purposes. Furthermore, automated converters don’t offer any methods to make a TIFF to ORF conversion. If this is disappointing, don’t worry, there are some other image types you can convert to that you’ll be more than satisfied with.

Two arrows pointing in opposite directions.
Converting the TIFF to ORF seems beneficial but is impossible.

What are some alternative options?

Chances are you wanted to convert the TIFF to the ORF in order to have an image file that retained a lot of file quality and high resolution. Even though it’s impossible to make that conversion, there are some different image types that will provide some similar features. If you’re looking for a conversion that will result in a high image resolution, consider the PNG. It’s a file capable of keeping image quality, as it is a lossless compression format.

If the size and accessibility of the file is more important to you, consider converting your TIFF into something like the JPEG. The JPEG is a relatively small, manageable file type that will allow you to share it quickly with clients and other team members. Remember that the JPEG is a compressed file, meaning the image will lose some of its resolution.

Don’t be discouraged by the fact the TIFF doesn’t convert to the ORF. The reality is, there are superior options for the features and benefits you need. Make sure you have some alternatives decided upon for future cases as well.